AI is integrating with the industries faster than anybody imagines and hence, the corporate world is changing a rapid pace. As layoffs become the new norm, new age jobs now require people to upskill and adapt to the new worldly trends. On the occasion, Microsoft founder Bill Gates has shared certain career advice for the new AI era amid global layoffs.
In an interview with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, Gates acknowledged the mega-transformative power of AI. He stated, “When you improve productivity, it shouldn’t mean that if you get less productive, that’s bad. And if you get more productive, that’s good. It means you can free up these people to have a smaller class size, have longer vacations, or to help do more. The question is, if it comes so fast that you don’t have time to adjust to it.”
The billionaire and philanthropist expressed his belief that AI-driven automation will ultimately yield positive outcomes, allowing professionals to engage themselves in more meaningful work. However, he warned that the accelerated pace of this shift could present significant challenges for society to adjust.
Concerns about more job losses
Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, had previously warned that approximately 50 percent of white-collar, entry-level positions could vanish by 2030 due to the widespread adoption of AI. Gates also suggested that blue-collar jobs might eventually be impacted as robotic capabilities continue to advance.
Gates also shared how astonished he was at the swift advancements in AI, particularly with new features such as Deep Research capabilities. “I have an advantage that I have very smart people I can call up when I get confused about physics. But now I actually use deep research. And then I’ll send that answer to my smart friends and say, ‘Hey, did it get it right?’ And most of the time they’re like, ‘oh yeah, you didn’t need me,’” remarked Gates humourosly.
Gates is actively collaborating with Microsoft and OpenAI to ensure that AI tools are accessible in low-income countries in a bid to support initiatives in health, education, and agriculture.
Bill Gates’ advice to youngsters
When asked for specific advice for young people navigating the changing professional landscape, Gates said, “The ability to use these tools is both fun and empowering. Embracing AI and tracking it will be very important. That doesn’t guarantee that we’re not going to have a lot of dislocation.”
“But I really haven’t changed my ‘be curious, read and use the latest tools’ recommendation for young people,” said Gates.
